American Ride

Well, what an album. Liked at first listen, closer to it on the second, felt its heart in the third, LOVED it ever since. This is how country should be done. Happy, Sad, Tearfelt, Heartfelt, Thoughtful, Masterful, Stories heard and Lessons learned. They are all here, behind every note, every refrain, every chord, and many more reasons to listen to the album over and over.

Toby Keith has cemented himself in the Country Music Scene since he burst onto it in 1998. The outspoken, bolshie hardman has proved throughout his 11 year career, that he can deliver solid country music; that may although lean towards the redneck side of affairs, but is always strong melodically.

The production of this album sees the frequent appearance of heavy electric guitar, more bass, more drums; and less fiddle and banjo. Contemporary Country it is all over: pop/rock arrangements with a country singer. Perhaps necessary for Keith to remain relevant. The album as a whole maintains that strong voice Keith narrates with: assured in what he's saying, and often in the style of `screw you'. There are a few tracks however that really highlight Keith's softer side, including the song dedicated to his late friend Wayman Tisdale.

The set kicks off with the stomping lead single, `American Ride'. Complete redneck attitude: `the o-zone is burning, but the world keeps turning', so why not enjoy monster trucks and gas-chomping rides? The song, unsurprisingly, hit #1 on country radio, but I doubt drew any new fans in. The production is really good on this track, but the persona that the song possesses is becoming a bit old. `Gypsy Drifting' however is a masterpiece. Possibly the best track on the record; the story follows the narrator on a journey from leaving a 9 to 5 job, and pursuing a dream. The lyrics seem autobiographical to Keith, (`wrote a song about a beer joint') and the melody is stirring. One of Keith's best songs from recent years.

`Are You Feelin' Me' is another solid song; asking the ex-girlfriend if she is haunted by the narrator when she's with her new boyfriend. Keith's vocal is very strong here; the production really showing off his gravelly tone. `Every Dog Has Its Day' is the unfortunate track on the album. Gimmicky from head to toe: complete with fiddles sounding like a dog barking. The lyrics are poor, and the concept just kind of pointless. `Woke Up On My Own' is a standout track however. Pure country genius from the arrangement to the lyrics. The story follows the narrator denying he's tried to get back to his ex, and claiming to her that he's moved on with no help from her; when of course he's rang her late at night drunk, knocked on her door - all but seen her. Keith's vocal is the best on the album here - a great range shown off, and the tone in his voice really emphasised.

`If You're Trying You Ain't' is extremely so-so following the tracks before it. Unfortunately the first of a couple forgettable songs. If Keith would mix up the arrangement or melody type every now and again, perhaps his albums would be even more successful. There's a definite formula to his music that can be frustrating at times. Wayman's Song is a poignant moment on the record however. With a surprise appearance from a saxophone, the melody is luscious, and really reflects the bittersweet nature of the song. This is the album's second single, and I bet it'll hit #1.

`If I Had One' is a good melody, again heavy on the guitars, but strong. The lyrics however make the song forgettable. It isn't a track that you'll have an opinion on ultimately, it's just there. You Can't Read My Mind is a strong melody, and feels extremely country. Good production, bringing back the fiddle and acoustic riffs. A good concept that follows the narrator, a bit merry in a bar, telling a stranger it's probably best if he keeps his mouth shut, instead of asking if she wants to take it any further. Good track, good track. `Tender As I Wanna Be' is a solid piano melody, with a building arrangement - featuring an epic guitar solo. It's a touching love song; talking about being scared of how fast the relationship is developing. The concept is great - addressing the issue of being masculine in a relationship. Again, the vocal is fantastic.

`Loaded' is a heavy production, mirroring the title track. The theme is exhausted however, and makes the track ultimately forgettable: talking about taking his girl out in the truck to the honky-tonk, meeting his friends, drinking and spending money. The kind of song Keith has tackled many, many times before. `Ballad of Balad' is a track in the vein of an old time ballad; but juxtaposing the melody with challenging lyrics and themes. Albeit in an ignorant fashion, the lyrics confront what seems to be the military. Observant, satirical and simple at the end of the day. An `okay' end to the album.

Keith's music is ultimately formulaic. It can be frustrating at times, as I said before. Perhaps a change of producer is needed? Or a branch out in songwriters? This album will indefinitely appeal to Keith's existent fans, but I doubt it will draw in any new ones. A problem many have with his music, is that it doesn't address any new themes. It's the same material, wrapped up in different - but not overly differing - melodies. With all this though, it is important to say that there are some killer songs on this record - and only a couple are skippable. Keith's vocal is always on top form, and it hard to understand why he isn't nominated for more vocal awards. Overall, solid effort.

3.5 Stars.

The album starts with the rollicking American Ride, moves onto Gypsy Driftin' about the travelling a singer does. The albums starts well and never disapoints. Every Dog has its day is amusing. The album has its quieter moments with Crying For me with a tasteful saxophone. An album with the usual Tobvy Keith mix of honky tonkers, ballads, rockers (relatively speaking) and the bittersweet amusement of Ballad of the Balad. I am a fan. His CDs are of a consistently high standard and they are different from the usual Nashville produced albums. I am not sure it is his best (my favourite is Honky Tonk University) but it is up to his usual high standard and he is in good voice. Good album. If you like Toby Keith, it will not ddisappoint and if you don't know his music, give it a listen and I think you will be impressed. Recommended.